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Employers of English majors in ME

Technical writers, also called technical communicators, prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, journal articles, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. They also develop, gather, and disseminate technical information through an organization’s communications channels. Most technical writers work full time in offices. Although technical writers work in a variety of industries, they are concentrated in the computer and engineering industries. A college degree is usually required for a position as a technical writer. In addition, experience with a technical subject, such as computer science, Web design, or engineering, is important. The median annual wage for technical writers was $70,930 in May 2017. Employment of technical writers is projected to grow 11 percent from 2016 to 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. Employment growth will be driven by the continuing expansion of scientific and technical products. An increase in Web-based product support should also increase demand for technical writers. Job opportunities, especially for applicants with technical skills, are expected to be good.

Plan, coordinate, or edit content of material for publication. May review proposals and drafts for possible publication. Includes technical editors. The median annual wage for editors was $58,770 in May 2017. Employment of editors is projected to show little or no change from 2016 to 2026, as print media continue to face strong pressure from online publications. Competition for jobs with established newspapers and magazines will be particularly strong.

Teach courses in English language and literature, including linguistics and comparative literature. Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. The median annual wage for postsecondary English language and literature teachers was $64,910 in May 2017.

Teach languages and literature courses in languages other than English. Includes teachers of American Sign Language (ASL). Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research. The median annual wage for postsecondary foreign language and literature teachers was $75,950 in May 2017.

Originate and prepare written material, such as scripts, stories, advertisements, and other material. The median annual wage for writers and authors was $61,820 in May 2017. Employment of writers and authors is projected to grow 8 percent from 2016 to 2026, about as fast as the average for all occupations. Strong competition is expected for full-time jobs because many people are attracted to this occupation.

Teach or instruct out-of-school youths and adults in remedial education classes, preparatory classes for the General Educational Development test, literacy, or English as a Second Language. Teaching may or may not take place in a traditional educational institution. The median annual wage for adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers was $52,100 in May 2017. Employment of adult literacy and high school equivalency diploma teachers is projected to decline 5 percent from 2016 to 2026. Declining enrollment in adult education and ESL programs and an increase in the high school graduation rate may lower demand for these types of teachers.